It is with great delight that I welcome you back to a new school year! There is always such a feeling of optimism and hope as we begin anew or continue our journey each September. Students and staff are excited to get to know one another, reconnect with friends and get their learning underway!

For those who are new to our school community, allow me to introduce myself. This is my third year at Russell Public and I am currently entering my 19th year with the Upper Canada District School Board. As a Russell resident myself, I love our village and certainly understand why we are the 3rd best place in Canada to live! A big part of what makes our school community so wonderful is you! We have the best, most supportive families who lend us their children for part of every day to learn and grow together! We have many ways you can further contribute to our community by volunteering in our school. We have a dynamic Parent Council, a volunteer reading program, hot lunch program and sports activities. Please visit our Volunteer Table at our Open House on Thursday, September 20th to find out more information or come our Parent Council meeting on September 11 at 7:00.

As the Leader for your school, my number one priority is your child(ren). It is my responsibility to make sure they are receiving the highest quality instruction and education in a culture which fosters curiosity, excitement and the joy of learning. There are many things which are changing and evolving in today’s classroom. Students are no longer the passive listeners and receivers of knowledge of the past. Today’s learners need hands-on, relevant experiences which challenge their thinking and excite their minds. As educators we are changing our practices to reflect the needs of our students.

I am also responsible to all of you, as you are your child(ren)’s first and most important teacher. My door is always open and I have included my cell number and email at the bottom of this letter. While your first point of contact for questions or concerns should always be your child’s classroom teachers, I am always available to speak with you as well.